I WILL NEVER ATTEND | KIKO BARZAGA DARES ETHICS COMMITTEE TO EXPEL HIM скачать в хорошем качестве

I WILL NEVER ATTEND | KIKO BARZAGA DARES ETHICS COMMITTEE TO EXPEL HIM

In January 2026, Cavite 4th District Representative Francisco “Kiko” Barzaga (popularly known online as "Congressmeow") sparked a fresh political standoff by openly defying the House Committee on Ethics and Privileges. The Core Conflict Barzaga, who was already serving a 60-day suspension (from December 1, 2025, to January 30, 2026) for "disorderly conduct," was summoned by the committee to address new allegations. These included: Bribery Allegations: Claiming on social media that National Unity Party (NUP) members took bribes from billionaire Enrique Razon Jr. to support the House Speakership. Controversial Remarks: Making "reckless and malicious" statements against fellow lawmakers and demeaning comments about the late Rep. Romeo Acop. The Defiance On January 28, 2026, Barzaga posted a bold ultimatum on Facebook, stating: “I will be ignoring the summons of the Ethics Committee, expel me if they want, but the Philippine Congress has done nothing but destroy the lives of the Filipino People.” The Consequences His refusal to attend and his direct challenge to the institution's authority have led to significant backlash: Potential Expulsion: House Deputy Speaker Ronaldo Puno and other NUP members are now seeking his permanent expulsion from Congress rather than a simple suspension extension. Legal Action: In addition to the ethics case, Barzaga faces several cyberlibel charges filed by NUP officials and Enrique Razon Jr. Institutional Reaction: Lawmakers have argued that Barzaga's "continuing defiance" demeans the House and provides "every basis" for the chamber to impose the most severe sanction—expulsion. The House Ethics Committee is scheduled to deliberate on his fitness to return to office as his current suspension ends.